{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Murray - Massenburg Elementary","outOfStateSupporters":8.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9370044,"projectId":10017511,"letterContent":"When the delivery arrived, the curiosity in the room was through the roof! I told the class we had a special delivery from some kind \"classroom friends\" (our donors), and when they realized it was a fresh supply of snacks, the room erupted.\r\n\r\nThe best moment was seeing the collective sigh of relief and excitement. One student whispered, \"We have the good snacks now!\" It's more than just food; it's the excitement of knowing they have exactly what they need to keep their brains fueled and ready for the day.","fullyFundedDate":1772038144890,"projectUrl":"project/snack-bar/10017511/","projectTitle":"Snack Bar","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Visbal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9370044_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706868002356","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thepetiteteacher"},{"teacherId":6643194,"projectId":9530580,"letterContent":"Thank you for your continued support for teachers in helping to make our learning spaces welcoming for our students which motivates their learning. \r\nThis project was to support a previous project, Language Development through World Exploration. I needed storage supplies, notebooks, etc., to help quickly find the materials we need to help our lesson planning go smoothly. I work with an intern, each semester, and they need to be able to find materials for our groups quickly. I know my room, they are learning where things are.\r\nWe received notebook for each month and each continent we study, and clear boxes for the various games we use to make learning fun. Sometimes there are small parts or cards with the units, so the smaller bags can help manage those within the notebook or box.\r\nWith no time between groups and each group having different needs, my supplies must be easy to find and clean up. \r\n\r\nThank you for helping create a space that supports learning while minimizing distractions.","fullyFundedDate":1758848894992,"projectUrl":"project/clean-clear-storage/9530580/","projectTitle":"Clean & Clear Storage","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kimberly Wynns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6643194_orig.jpg?crop=1718,1718,x35,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671029459215","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/wynns"},{"teacherId":5975046,"projectId":9920698,"letterContent":"Because of your support for \"Chill Out with Teamwork Treats & Treasures: Celebrate Good Choices!\", my classroom has truly transformed into a place where students are learning responsibility, teamwork, and real-world financial skills in such an engaging way.\r\n\r\nWe now have a classroom store where students earn and spend their own play money. They earn it by making great choices, completing tasks, showing kindness, and demonstrating strong effort. What has been especially powerful is how naturally this has supported financial literacy—students are learning how to save, spend, and make thoughtful decisions. The excitement the first time they saw the store was unforgettable. Their eyes lit up as they realized their positive choices now had real, meaningful rewards connected to their daily actions.\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest motivators has been our \"ninja slushie\" reward system. It has completely shifted classroom behavior in a positive direction. Students are more focused, more cooperative, and genuinely excited to complete their work and follow expectations. It has created a sense of teamwork and pride in doing the right thing—not just for rewards, but for our classroom community.\r\n\r\nWe've also been incredibly touched by the support from parents who have donated materials to help us expand our slushie options. These contributions have made the experience even more special and inclusive for the students.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are continuing to build on this momentum. Students are now setting personal behavior and learning goals tied to earning opportunities in the store. We are also beginning simple budgeting activities so they can plan ahead for what they want to \"buy\" and learn the value of saving for something meaningful. Watching them grow in responsibility, self-regulation, and excitement for learning has been the greatest reward—and it is all possible because of your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1772633556922,"projectUrl":"project/chill-out-with-teamwork-treats-treasur/9920698/","projectTitle":"Chill Out with Teamwork Treats & Treasures: Celebrate Good Choices!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mabini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5975046_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x240,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1751307834455","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/danielmabini"},{"teacherId":9370044,"projectId":9468138,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students and the entire school community, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your generous donation of materials to our Podcast Club. Your support has provided our students with the professional tools they need to find their voices and share their stories with the world.\r\n\r\nThe impact of this donation has been immediate and profound. Having access to high-quality equipment has transformed our sessions from simple classroom discussions into a professional studio experience. Here is how your contribution is changing things for our students:\r\n\r\nBuilding Confidence: Students who were previously hesitant to speak in front of a group are now thriving behind the microphone. The \"magic\" of the equipment has given them the courage to express their opinions and interview their peers.\r\n\r\nDeveloping Technical Skills: Our members are learning the \"ins and outs\" of audio engineering, editing, and sound design—skills that bridge the gap between creative arts and modern technology.\r\n\r\nFostering Collaboration: Producing a podcast requires teamwork. Your donation has created a space where students must work together as hosts, researchers, and producers to create a finished product they are proud of.\r\n\r\nEmpowering Student Voice: Perhaps most importantly, you have given these children a platform. They are currently working on segments ranging from school news to storytelling, realizing that their perspectives truly matter.\r\n\r\nIt is inspiring to see the excitement in the room when the \"On Air\" sign goes up. None of this would be possible without your belief in our mission and your investment in our students' futures.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your kindness and for helping us amplify the voices of the next generation.","fullyFundedDate":1760710385685,"projectUrl":"project/podcastnews-club-at-panther-nation/9468138/","projectTitle":"Podcast/News Club at Panther Nation","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Visbal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9370044_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706868002356","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thepetiteteacher"},{"teacherId":5975046,"projectId":9898483,"letterContent":"Since receiving the magnetic tiles, tape, and hands-on manipulatives, my kindergarten students have been fully immersed in meaningful STEM exploration every day. They have been using the magnetic tiles to design and build towers, bridges, and imaginative structures while naturally engaging in conversations about shapes, balance, stability, and problem-solving. One of the most powerful moments has been watching students collaborate—negotiating ideas, testing solutions, and rebuilding when structures fall—without hesitation or frustration, but with excitement and persistence.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the classroom energy completely shifted. The students were immediately curious and eager to explore everything at once. Many of them had never used magnetic tiles or open-ended engineering materials before, and their faces lit up as they discovered what they could create. The tape and additional manipulatives quickly became tools for experimentation—students began connecting paper, reinforcing structures, and inventing their own building challenges. It was incredible to see how quickly they took ownership of the materials and turned them into opportunities for creative problem-solving.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, students will be working on more intentional project-based learning challenges where they design and build solutions to simple real-world problems, such as creating a shelter or constructing a bridge that can support weight. These resources are not only strengthening their fine motor skills and early engineering thinking, but also building confidence, communication, and collaboration. Because of your support, my students are experiencing STEM learning in a way that is joyful, hands-on, and deeply meaningful—laying a strong foundation for their future learning.","fullyFundedDate":1763589021350,"projectUrl":"project/design-build-create-hands-on-stem-and/9898483/","projectTitle":"Design, Build, Create: Hands-On STEM and PBL for Kindergarten!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mabini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5975046_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x240,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1751307834455","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/danielmabini"},{"teacherId":9370044,"projectId":9840645,"letterContent":"When the delivery arrived, the curiosity in the room was through the roof! I told the class we had a special delivery from some kind \"classroom friends\" (our donors), and when they realized it was a fresh supply of snacks, the room erupted.\r\n\r\nThe best moment was seeing the collective sigh of relief and excitement. One student whispered, \"We have the good snacks now!\" It's more than just food; it's the excitement of knowing they have exactly what they need to keep their brains fueled and ready for the day.","fullyFundedDate":1762361050956,"projectUrl":"project/fuel-for-the-soul/9840645/","projectTitle":"Fuel for the Soul","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Visbal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9370044_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706868002356","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thepetiteteacher"},{"teacherId":9748014,"projectId":9366338,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for contributing to our school garden. Your donations have made it possible for us to create a school garden and gardening club for our kindergarten and first grade students. The students have put together gardening beds, started seeds, planted seedlings and grown in their confidence as scientists!\r\n\r\nNot only are students developing their knowledge of seasons and living things, but they are also growing in their language skills. English language learners are growing in their comfortability to use informal and academic language. Students are showing complex problems solving skills and using critical thinking. It is only January and we have seen amazing things. \r\n\r\nThank you so much for your generosity that has made this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1748008912835,"projectUrl":"project/stem-school-garden/9366338/","projectTitle":"STEM School Garden","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nelson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9748014_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x112,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747768349556","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9748014"},{"teacherId":10187665,"projectId":9621209,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our \"learning to observe and record the natural world\" project. The students go outside to observe the natural world twice a week. We come back from outside and \"record\" our observations in our journals, including many illustrations. \r\n\r\nThe students have enjoyed the opportunity to look closely and learn. We have observed many birds on our walks. We even created an ebird checklist for our school. The group includes students in grades 4 and 5 and mostly students whose first language is not English.\r\n\r\nI believe this project will continue to have an impact on the participating students. The opportunity to observe and name the world is an important skill that supports both curiosity and language development. I look forward to reflecting on the project at the end of the school and dreaming about our next steps.","fullyFundedDate":1755707118337,"projectUrl":"project/learning-to-observe-and-record-the-natur/9621209/","projectTitle":"Learning to Observe and Record the Natural World","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Melragon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10187665"},{"teacherId":5975046,"projectId":9435891,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our DonorsChoose project, \"Building Literacy Hands-on in Kindergarten!\" Your generosity has truly transformed our classroom and created meaningful learning experiences for my students every single day.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment my kindergarteners saw the new literacy materials, their faces lit up with excitement. They could not wait to touch, explore, and play with their learning tools. In kindergarten, hands-on learning is everything—and because of you, my students now have engaging, tactile materials that help them build the foundational literacy skills they need to become confident readers.\r\n\r\nWe use these materials throughout our structured literacy block to practice writing words, blending and segmenting, and substituting sounds—critical phonemic awareness skills that can be challenging without concrete, interactive tools. Having manipulatives they can move, arrange, and experiment with has made such a difference. Students who once hesitated now eagerly participate because they feel successful and in control of their learning.\r\n\r\nThe materials have also become a highlight in our Literacy Centers. Every day, the children ask, \"Is it center time yet?\" It has quickly become their favorite part of the day. They love using the tools to build words, sort sounds, and work with their partners. Your contribution not only supported academic growth—it has boosted motivation, confidence, and joy in learning.\r\n\r\nAs we continue working on early reading skills this year, these resources will support students in mastering CVC words, building phonics fluency, and strengthening their phonemic awareness. The impact will last far beyond this moment—these materials will continue to benefit future classes for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and giving them the tools they need to thrive. Your kindness matters, and we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1755707118589,"projectUrl":"project/building-literacy-hands-on-in-kindergart/9435891/","projectTitle":"Building Literacy Hands-on in Kindergarten!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mabini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5975046_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x240,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1751307834455","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/danielmabini"},{"teacherId":4277297,"projectId":9475486,"letterContent":"We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous contribution to our \"Power Up Afterschool Learning\" project through Donors Choose. Your support has made a significant impact on our students and their academic journey.\r\n\r\nWe are excited to share that we have already implemented the tablets funded by your donation into our afterschool learning programs. These devices are already enhancing our students' educational experiences in remarkable ways! \r\n\r\nThe tablets have empowered our students to conduct research for their homework projects, access interactive learning platforms such as Prodigy, Khan Academy, and Boddle, and engage in various educational activities that nurture their academic skills. In addition to academic enrichment, we are integrating a sense of fun into learning environments. Through our Minecraft Education club, students are learning valuable skills while exploring creativity and problem-solving. \r\n\r\nFurthermore, in our cooking club, the tablets play a vital role in teaching K-5 students how to find recipes and assist them in creating their very own cookbooks. This hands-on activity not only makes learning exciting but also encourages practical life skills and teamwork among our young learners.\r\n\r\nYour generous support has allowed us to create a dynamic and engaging learning atmosphere where students can thrive and explore their interests. We are extremely grateful for your belief in our mission and your commitment to making a difference in the lives of our students.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your kindness and support. We look forward to sharing more updates on our progress and the continued impact of your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1755707118439,"projectUrl":"project/power-up-afterschool-learning/9475486/","projectTitle":"Power Up Afterschool Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dorsey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4277297_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1486747049133","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4277297"},{"teacherId":4038771,"projectId":9618467,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous contributions of donors, our class was able to make great use of the cleaning supplies and snacks that were provided. These donations played a vital role in maintaining a healthy, focused, and welcoming learning environment throughout the school year.\r\n\r\nThe cleaning supplies helped us maintain a high standard of cleanliness in the classroom, which was especially important during flu season and times when illnesses were circulating. Items such as disinfecting wipes, paper towels, hand sanitizer, and sprays were used daily to sanitize desks, door handles, shared materials, and other high-touch surfaces. This routine became a part of our daily schedule, with students taking turns each afternoon to help clean their areas and shared classroom tools like scissors, pencils, and tablets. These supplies not only helped us reduce the spread of germs, but also taught students valuable lessons about personal responsibility, hygiene, and caring for a shared space.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the cleaning supplies contributed to creating a more comfortable and organized classroom. With materials like storage bins, wipes, and cleaning sprays, we were able to keep art and science stations neat and ready for use. This made it easier to transition between activities and allowed students to take more pride in their workspace.\r\n\r\nThe snacks provided by donors were equally impactful. Many students come to school without a substantial breakfast or may not have access to healthy snacks at home. Having a stock of nutritious snacks such as granola bars, crackers, applesauce, and fruit cups on hand made a significant difference in helping students stay focused and energized throughout the day. We distributed snacks during mid-morning breaks and sometimes during after-school programs or tutoring sessions.\r\n\r\nThese snacks also provided emotional comfort to students who might have been having a tough day or were dealing with food insecurity at home. The knowledge that there would always be something to eat in the classroom helped many students feel safe, cared for, and better able to engage in learning.\r\n\r\nMoreover, we used snack times as opportunities to build community. Students often shared stories, practiced gratitude, and bonded over snack breaks, which fostered a greater sense of belonging in the classroom. We also incorporated snack time into social-emotional learning activities, where students practiced mindfulness, discussed healthy habits, or simply enjoyed a few minutes of calm together.\r\n\r\nIn conclusion, the cleaning supplies and snacks donated to our class went far beyond their practical purposes. They contributed to the overall physical health, emotional well-being, and academic success of our students. Every wipe used and every snack shared was a small act that added up to a big impact. We are truly grateful for the support from our donors, and their generosity continues to make a difference in our classroom every day.","fullyFundedDate":1755558403413,"projectUrl":"project/great-start-to-a-new-year/9618467/","projectTitle":"Great Start to a New Year!!!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wright","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4038771"},{"teacherId":9370044,"projectId":9392172,"letterContent":"Bringing History to Life in 2nd Grade\r\nOh, what a joy these new resources have been in our 2nd grade classroom! My seven- and eight-year-olds are using the colorful picture timelines, touchable artifact kits (like tiny freedom hats and protest signs), and simple AR maps to explore \"Brave Helpers\" from history. In our special project called \"My Hero Parade,\" kids march around the room with the AR maps on iPads, waving virtual flags from stories like Rosa Parks' bus or Ruby Bridges' school. One sweet moment was when little Mia held up a toy megaphone from the kit and shouted, \"We help friends now!\"—then the whole class joined in a giggle-filled parade, drawing their own hero banners.\r\nKids' Big \"Wow\" Moment\r\nWhen I first pulled out the boxes, it was like magic! The kids gasped and clapped as colorful timelines unrolled like treasure maps, and they touched soft fabric from old story flags. \"It's alive!\" squealed Jamal, tapping an AR bus that honked on the screen. Some wiggled with excitement, others hugged the kits tight—one shy girl, Lila, smiled huge and said, \"Rosa is my friend now!\" No tears or fuss—just pure sparkly eyes and \"Can we play again?\" cheers.\r\nNext Fun Steps Ahead\r\nNow, we're finishing our parade project by making real \"helper hats\" from the kits to wear at our class party on October 25th. Next week, kids will draw their own brave stories on timelines to share with families—then we'll visit the school playground to \"march for kindness\" like our heroes! Donors, your gifts turned storytime into adventure—we can't wait to show you pictures!","fullyFundedDate":1752675388002,"projectUrl":"project/help-the-2nd-grade-team/9392172/","projectTitle":"Help the 2nd grade Team","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Visbal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9370044_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706868002356","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thepetiteteacher"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_134145","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":800,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":67,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":34,"percentWhite":18,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":32,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":5,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Record","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":91.6,"schoolId":134145,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Murray - Massenburg Elementary on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Murray - Massenburg Elementary","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/north-carolina/durham-public-schools/murray-massenburg-elementary/134145"}